Cattle ranchers in B.C. facing financial struggles
Global News
More established ranchers are stepping away from the farm as costs rise in this ever-changing industry.
For the Schweb family in the North Okanagan, it’s the time of year they get their cattle ready to go to the summer pasture. But this year’s not like the rest, as the Schwebs worry about the future of the industry.
“It’s hard to say what’s gonna happen in the next few years,” said Trudi Schweb owner of Schweb Family Cattle.
The family has been farming for four generations and doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. However, they’ve noticed that mindset changing for other ranchers in the region.
“There’s a lot of people getting out of it right now because the prices are good on the mama cows. They’re finding that now’s the time, if they’re gonna downsize, now’s when they’re gonna do it,” said Trudi.
More established ranchers are stepping away from the farm as costs rise in this ever-changing industry, and that can lead to serious side effects within the next few years.
“We’re gonna have a lack of numbers. There’s not gonna be cows, especially in our province,” Trudi said.
And it’s not any easier for new farmers stepping into the profession, as the cost of building their own ranch could come with a hefty bill.
“Just like anything whether it’s buying a house or starting a ranch or anything. You’re blessed if you have generations that pass things down. I think it’s definitely harder for anybody to get into this business,” said Cody Schweb.